Ridgell's Originals

I recently wrote about helping churches in trouble re-dig their foundations.  I start with I Corinthians 15:1-4 and remind them that Jesus death and resurrection have to be the foundation for their church.  And that good news comes from the Scripture.  So be sure you are a church that is about Jesus first and foremost and one that is rooted in Scripture.

The second passage I remind churches of is Mark 12:30-31.  This is what you need to constantly call your members to do.  Love God with all they have and love your neighbor as yourself.

Those are the two greatest commands.  It is the most important thing you want from your church members.

Churches need to be all about Jesus.  He is the most important thing you teach.  Many dying churches wonder about meeting needs in their community and among their members so they will be relevant.  Jesus is the greatest need anyone will ever have.  Sin is the problem.  Jesus is the answer.

Be a Bible church.  Do you expect your members to read the Bible?  Teach from it.  Counsel from it.  Let it be the basis of instruction and guidance for those seeking to follow Jesus.

Call your people to love God.  So many churches get in trouble by falling in love with doctrine, or worship, or buildings, or even the church.  It is God we are to love.

Love your neighbor as yourself.  That is the call to live Jesus in your community.

These are basic, foundational concepts. 

Even an unhealthy church that seems to be dying can be changed. 

Jesus, Scripture, loving God and people.

You do not need a big staff to do these things.  Or a lot of programs.  Or a large budget.  Or even a building.

Start evaluating your church based on these things and you can be healthy.

And by the way, if you ever find yourself looking for a church home... this is a good place to start.

Jesus death and resurrection.  Bible.  Love God.  Love people.

That would be a healthy community to be a part of.